Rough Road Ahead For Lawmakers

LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- Republicans will have large advantages in both the Michigan House and Michigan Senate starting in January. Republican leaders say they believe voters sent them a clear message about the need to balance the state's budget with bold, cost-cutting action. They say voters also want lawmakers to make it easier for businesses to operate and create jobs in Michigan. It won't be easy. The state faces a budget shortfall estimated at roughly $1.7 billion for the fiscal year that starts next October. Michigan also has one of the nation's highest unemployment rates. Republican and Democratic lawmakers say they plan to work with Republican Gov.-elect Rick Snyder to help improve the state. But lawmakers will have their own policy ideas as well.

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